Nigeria, October 8, 2023 – Farmers across several Nigerian states are grappling with insecurity issues that have forced them to abandon their farms, raising concerns about potential food shortages in the nation. In the Panyam community of Plateau State, Bulus Silas, a farmer, lamented the insecurity, saying he refrained from cultivating his maize farm this year due to the fear of violence. Several others in the region have similarly abandoned their farms in fear of being attacked. Last week, three individuals were killed by unknown assailants while working on their farms in the same area.
Residents of Miango community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State have also voiced their concerns about the security situation, fearing that it could lead to food shortages in the state. Despite pleas for government intervention, some feel their calls have fallen on deaf ears.
Efforts are being made to restore normalcy in Sokoto State, where the police command is collaborating with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, NSCDC, and local vigilantes, to encourage farmers to return to their farmlands. However, Abba Ibrahim, a farmer from the Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, explained that insecurity has prevented him from cultivating a significant portion of his farmland this season.
In Niger State, bandits have overrun several local government areas, causing farmers to flee their farms. The state police have increased patrols to address the situation. Despite these efforts, insecurity remains a pressing concern.
Kidnappings of Students Continue
The security crisis isn’t limited to farmers. Data compiled by Findwhosabi shows that between January 1 and October 5, 2023, at least 66 students from Federal Government-owned universities and serving corps members have been kidnapped. While some abductees were freed by security agencies or paid ransoms, others remain in captivity.
The rise in abductions has raised alarm among Nigerians. In some instances, students were abducted in border communities, such as Iseke in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, which has become a safe haven for gunmen.
Food Crisis Looms
The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has confirmed that a significant number of its members have been affected by the widespread insecurity, particularly in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions. AFAN is committed to supporting the government’s efforts to ensure the security of its members but emphasizes the need for farmers to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.
Security experts have called for urgent measures to protect students and schools, including perimeter fencing and enhanced military presence around educational institutions. They stress the importance of good governance in addressing the security challenges.
Government’s Response and Interventions
The Federal Government has taken steps to address the humanitarian crisis caused by banditry in Zamfara State. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, handed over 40 housing units to victims of banditry as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. The government is committed to rescuing abducted students and improving security in tertiary institutions across the country.
The Nigerian Army has assured farmers and agrarian communities that they are not forgotten in ongoing security operations. Operation MESA, a joint operation with other security agencies, is conducting patrols, raiding criminal hideouts, and responding to distress calls to protect citizens, including farmers.
In the face of insecurity threatening both the agricultural sector and education, Nigerians are calling for immediate and comprehensive action to restore peace and stability in the country.